Training the heart to calm the brain: a new hope for functional neurological disorders?
NCT ID NCT06422819
First seen Aug 14, 2026 · Last updated Aug 14, 2026
Summary
This trial tests whether heart rate variability biofeedback—a non-invasive technique that teaches people to control their heart rhythm—can ease symptoms of functional neurological disorders (FND), a condition where the brain and nervous system don't function properly despite no structural damage. About 31 adults with a confirmed FND diagnosis will be trained in this technique and compared to a placebo group. The study measures changes in symptom severity, quality of life, and daily functioning to see if this mind-body approach offers a new, drug-free treatment option.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Heart rate variability biofeedback (HRV-BFB), a non-invasive technique that uses real-time heart rate feedback to help people learn to control unconscious bodily processes and regulate the autonomic nervous system.
- What this could lead to
- If effective, HRV biofeedback could offer a drug-free, non-invasive way to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life for people with functional neurological disorders.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small early-stage trial, and the placebo effect can be strong with biofeedback. It is unclear whether benefits will last or apply to all patients.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Université de Montréal's affiliated Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)
Montreal, Quebec, H2X 0C1, Canada
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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